As a gay ex-Mormon, I feel like my life naturally pulled me toward a career in mental health. Being taught from an early age that homosexuality is a sin, I wrestled with internal homophobia for the majority of my adolescence and early adult life. My self-loathing significantly impacted my mental health, breeding symptoms of severe depression and anxiety. As I silently suffered, refraining from disclosing what I was experiencing in fear of rejection, I slowly began to feel disconnected from myself and everything I held dear.

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This experience, even as debilitating as it was, helped me to cultivate a deep sense of empathy for others. As I worked with my own therapist, making peace with myself, my family, and my spirituality, I started to find meaning and joy in holding space for people as they processed their pain. My anguish and newfound peace eventually compelled me to help others live happy and fulfilling lives. Now I do just that!

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I graduated from Cal State University, Long Beach with a Masters in Social Work degree and I am Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW). As an LCSW, I have continued my education and am now certified in EMDR therapy and Brainspotting therapy to treat trauma and adverse life experiences.

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Before working in private practice, I was the Community Outreach and Engagement Specialist for the Older Adults Services department at the LGBTQIA+ Center, Long Beach. Prior to that position, I interned with the Mental Health Services department as a mental health clinician.